Indonesia Urges Citizens in Saudi Arabia to Stay Alert Amid Heightened Security Concerns
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged Indonesian nationals in Saudi Arabia, including Umrah pilgrims, to remain vigilant, avoid high-risk areas and follow instructions issued by local authorities amid heightened security concerns.
“We ask Indonesians in Saudi Arabia, including Umrah pilgrims, to stay calm and remain vigilant. Avoid high-risk areas, comply with prevailing regulations, and follow directives from local authorities. Safety must be the top priority,” ministry spokesperson Ichsan Marsha said in Jakarta on Monday.
Marsha advised Indonesian citizens to rely on official sources for updates, avoid unverified information and refrain from spreading rumours that could cause unnecessary panic.
Umrah pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia were urged to maintain close contact with their travel organisers, monitor travel-related updates and strictly follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
The spokesperson also stressed that travel organisers should closely monitor their respective groups and provide timely and essential guidance to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims.
Meanwhile, prospective Umrah pilgrims scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia in the coming days were advised to monitor the evolving situation and consult official channels regarding their travel arrangements.
“Follow government directives and do not hesitate to contact your travel organizers for clarification in the event of changes to schedules or travel requirements,” Marsha added.
The advisory follows reports of an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Saturday, October 10, which reportedly killed 12 people and injured 309 others. According to the Saudi Arabian General Authority of Civil Aviation, the incident prompted a temporary suspension of airport operations.
The Indonesian ministry’s advisory aims to ensure the safety of its nationals and pilgrims while encouraging them to remain informed through reliable sources and comply with security measures in Saudi Arabia.
